Wales welcomes new chief veterinary officer

Dr Richard Irvine has been appointed as the new chief veterinary officer for Wales, joining the Welsh Government following his previous work in the UK Government as UK deputy chief veterinary officer and policy deputy director for global animal health.

Dr Irvine has been working within the veterinarian sector for more than 25 years and brings a background of animal health and welfare, trade policy and science and state veterinary medicine.

Prior to this role, he spent time in a clinical mixed veterinary practice in South Wales and has held a variety of roles leading animal health surveillance and science programmes at the Animal and Plant Health Agency.

Commenting on his new position, Dr Irvine said: “Farmers and veterinarians throughout Wales do a fantastic job and I’m looking forward to meeting and supporting them as Wales’ chief veterinary officer.

“We are all committed to protecting the health and welfare of animals and by working together we can meet the challenges we face and accomplish our collective goals.

“Much has been achieved in Wales and my work, alongside the team in Welsh Government, is to build on that.

“I’m looking forward to getting to work and making a real difference here in Wales.”

Adding to this, rural affairs minister, Lesley Griffiths, said: “Richard’s leadership and expertise will be crucial in delivering our ambitious Animal Health and Welfare goals and Programme for Government commitments.

“His knowledge and experience will be a great asset.”